Renovaré Podcast with Nathan Foster: Recent Episodes
Renovaré
A conversational podcast on spiritual formation, spiritual disciplines, and life with God. New episodes every other Monday. Hosted by Nathan Foster of Renovaré, a nonprofit that provides resources, events, and learning communities to help people become more like Jesus. Learn more at renovare.org.
A 20-minute meditation—an audio retreat—on Psalm 131. Put on some headphones, find a comfortable spot, and let your soul be quieted. This episode is a collaboration with Joshua Banner from The Invitation Podcast (invitationpodcast.org).
Prayer doesn't have to be perfect, just real. Brian Morykon and Nathan Foster talk about music and writing as forms that help us craft authentic prayers in this 2015 episode of the Renovaré Podcast.
"Each day is God's gift… But we have a choice." Jan Johnson talks with Nate about how to rejoice and be glad with the help of spiritual disciplines.
Find more Jan Johnson resources at janjohnson.org
Mimi Dixon invites us to let Julian of Norwich teach us that “all shall be well" in this encore episode that first aired in 2017.
Nathan Foster talks with Winn Collier about the penetrating and practical spiritual wisdom of 17th-century archbishop and writer François Fénelon.
Robyn Wrigley-Carr returns to the Renovaré Podcast to talk with Nate about Evelyn Underhill—the 20th century author, spiritual director and retreat leader—and about Baron Friedrich Von Hügel, whose spiritual direction transformed Evelyn’s life with God.
Show Notes
[2:15] Here’s a quote from Eugene Peterson: “The most extensive and inviting introduction … a brilliantly written book.” How did it feel to have read that about your book?
[3:49] Could you tell me what is a baron and who is said Baron that was so impactful on Evelyn’s life, and on Eugene’s too?
[6:56] What were [Von Hügel’s] health issues?
[8:59] Why did [Von Hügel] only want to see [Evelyn Underhill] twice a year?
[ ] What would you say were some of the key components in [Evelyn Underhill’s] own formation?
[ ] Who were some of these folks that were influencing [Evelyn]?
[ ] I find it helpful to hear [Baron Von Hügel] doing spiritual direction in a very different way than we think of it... What would you say were some of Evelyn Underhill’s contributions to the discipline of spiritual direction?
[ ] What about [Evelyn’s] life inspires you?
Resources
- The Spiritual Formation of Evelyn Underhill, by Robyn Wrigley-Carr
- Evelyn Underhill’s Prayer Book, by Robyn Wrigley-Carr
Professor, pastor, and author Robert Moore-Jumonville talks with Nathan Foster about Orthodoxy by G.K. Chesterton.
Show Notes
[0:57] What do you like about Chesterton?
[5:09 ] How would you describe Orthodoxy to someone?
[7:32] I’m struggling with the term “dense,” because it’s not boring...
[12:41] For some reason I hear Kurt Vonnegut in Chesterton – the satire, the unexpected. Chesterton surprises me.
[16:40] It seems like a cultural commentary that has a lot of relevance for today.
[18:45] What are one or two significant impacts Chesterton has had on your life?
[23:46] How do you think Chesterton would like to be remembered?
[24:51] Can you tell us a little about your book?
Resources
- Orthodoxy, G.K. Chesterton
- Chesterton and Tolkien as Theologians, Alison Milbank
- The Kingdom of God in America, RichardNiebuhr
- Jogging with G.K. Chesterton: 65 Earthshaking Expeditions, by Robert Moore-Jumonville
Professor, pastor, and author Robert Moore-Jumonville talks with Nathan Foster about Orthodoxy by G.K. Chesterton.
Show Notes
[0:57] What do you like about Chesterton?
[5:09 ] How would you describe Orthodoxy to someone?
[7:32] I’m struggling with the term “dense,” because it’s not boring...
[12:41] For some reason I hear Kurt Vonnegut in Chesterton – the satire, the unexpected. Chesterton surprises me.
[16:40] It seems like a cultural commentary that has a lot of relevance for today.
[18:45] What are one or two significant impacts Chesterton has had on your life?
[23:46] How do you think Chesterton would like to be remembered?
[24:51] Can you tell us a little about your book?
Resources
- Orthodoxy, G.K. Chesterton
- Chesterton and Tolkien as Theologians, Alison Milbank
- The Kingdom of God in America, RichardNiebuhr
- Jogging with G.K. Chesterton: 65 Earthshaking Expeditions, by Robert Moore-Jumonville
Most years Lacy Borgo re-reads A Testament of Devotion by Thomas Kelly. She joins Nathan Foster to discuss how this spiritual classic has impacted her life.
Show Notes
[3:02] You mentioned to me some time ago that you read this book every year. What’s that about?
[5:06] How would you describe A Testament of Devotion?
[6:23] What are the pieces this year that are ringing to you?
[8:37] As a spiritual director, how do you see people lean into that glow (of the Presence of God in each person)?
[11:23] Thomas Kelly talks a lot about “the light within,” very Quaker. Can you talk a little about what he means by that?
[12:25] How has this book influenced your life?
[14:47] What is a spiritual autobiography?
[18:48] There is this kind of tender, mystical side to him, poetic almost. What do you think?
[20:43] Your care and concern for little people…how has Thomas spoken into that?
[23:10] You have a children's book coming out. Can I ask you about it?
Resources
- A Testament of Devotion, by Thomas Kelly
- All Will Be Well: Learning to Trust God’s Love, by Lacy Borgo
- Revelations of Divine Love, Julian of Norwich, introduced and translated by Fr. John-Julian, OJN
Nathan welcomes Mark Buchanan to the podcast to discuss the wonderfully “reliable” spiritual practice of walking, which is the topic of Mark’s newest book, God Walk: Moving at the Speed of Your Soul.
Show Notes
[1:17] I’m curious, how long have you been a speed walker?
[2:09] What has your experience and practice been with walking?
[3:58] What did you learn from writing the book?
[5:48] What happens for you when you walk?
[7:58] A friend of mine gave me a quote: Those who work with their mind rest with their hands; those who work with their hands rest with their mind. I think of walking a little like I do silence—that it’s reliable.
[9:34] When you use the phrase “God speed,” what do you mean by that?
[16:08] What was your favorite chapter?
[22:06] What do you hope for people reading your book?
[23:03] You start the book referencing a friend of yours who is not able to walk. Could you give a word for people who are not able-bodied…?
[25:12] Are there other things you have learned from your indigenous friends?
[27:47] Any pilgrimages you have done or would like to do?
Resources
- God Walk, Moving at the Speed of Your Soul, by Mark Buchanan
- The Rest of God: Restoring Your Soul by Restoring Sabbath, by Mark Buchanan
- Three Mile an Hour God, by Koyama Kosuke
- The Reason You Walk, by Wab Kinew
The 2022-23 Renovaré Book Club is here. Learn more at renovare.org/bookclub.
Trevor Hudson talks with Nate about his new book, Seeking God: Finding Another Kind of Life with St. Ignatius and Dallas Willard, and unpacks what it means to be a “seeker” in a Christ-following way.
Show Notes
[1:43] I’m curious to know how you discovered St. Ignatius and how he’s impacted your life.
[3:30] What was that experience like for you, personally, to go through the Exercises?
[4:59] For those listening who don’t know, could you just give us a brief description of the Exercises?
[8:09] You’ve been able to lead people through the Exercises through these years. What have you noticed?
[9:51] How did you discover Dallas [Willard], and how has he impacted your life? What did that friendship bring to you and your family?
[12:46] How did the idea come to write a book involving these two friends?
[15:59] Tell us a little about the book.
[16:57] The term seeker, at least in the States, is usually referenced in Christian contexts as a non-Christian that the church is wooing in. You’re working with this word far beyond that. What does it mean to you?
[20:00] When Debbie referenced you as a seeker, is there a tension in that? Does she mean it all in a positive sense?
[21:58] Was Dallas right in saying you wouldn’t be content?
[23:18] What does that look like to embrace the present moment?
[25:05] What did you learn from writing this book?
[27:00] What are you reading these days?
Resources
- Seeking God: Finding Another Kind of Life with St. Ignatius and Dallas Willard, by Trevor Hudson
- The Divine Conspiracy, by Dallas Willard
- The Master and his Emissary, Ian McGilchrist
Renovaré President Ted Harro discusses his recent pilgrimage with his son along the Camino de Santiago, including how its unexpected detours taught him the beauty of humility.
Show Notes
[1:00] You recently went on a pilgrimage. Can you discuss pilgrimage as a spiritual practice?
[4:55] I love this question, where are you going and why? That sounds like a Jesus-type question. So is the point the destination, is this a kind of magical place that I go and I get a gold star from God for walking 300 miles?
[6:23] So tell us – everything went wrong? Tell us about your experience. What was the plan?
[10:08] When I heard that it didn't go as planned, there was a part of me that was really sad because I know you had been preparing for this and it was really important. But I also had a little smile on my face because I thought, “Oh, Ted’s going to learn something, that you can only learn from having these disappointments, challenges.” Are there things you have been able to unpack from the experience that you’d be willing to share?
[17:32] What did you do with the grief of watching Duncan go on?
[19:50] Talking about humility, what were some of the new pieces that opened up for you?
[23:40] How have you made it 55 years without bumping into your limitations? There is a gift and a blessing in bumping into those. In reading my dad’s new book on humility that’s coming out later this year, he reaches the conclusion that it’s the foundational virtue for spiritual formation.
[25:20] How has it been wearing for you as you’ve been home for a while now?
[27:43] As we’re talking, I’m reflecting on the six months – you have really come in with a high level of humility, as a learner trying to partner with God, and that’s been neat to watch. Are there pieces in these months that you’ve learned, or things that might be helpful for people to know about Renovaré and your role?
Resources
- Learning Humility: A Year of Searching for a Vanishing Virtue, by Richard Foster (coming out December 2022)
Show Notes
[1:24] You have a new book out. Why did you write this book?
[4:18] Can you share a little about your journey?
[7:51] What made a difference for you? How have you worked your narratives and what is thatprocess like?
[9:41] Many Christians know…the reality of some of the things you're saying. How do you move that from your head to your heart?
[11:52] When I see others as beloved image bearers, it makes it quite difficult to control or dehumanize them. There’s a freedom, isn’t there?
[13:52] In the book, after each chapter you have different practices—exercises—for people. Can you talk a little about those?
[16:22] How do you invite God into that [practice of holy leisure—being rather than doing]?
[17:18] Are there other practices that have been helpful for you in your journey?
[19:08] How does that [practice of Sabbath] help with your narratives?
[20:17] What do you hope for people reading the book?
[21:10] I know there are a lot of folks who struggle with moving into their belovedness, because it can feel like self-help…What do you say to those folks?
[24:47] I’m curious, are there more Good and Beautiful… things you have in store for us?
Resources
- Good and Beautiful You, by James Brian Smith
- The Good and Beautiful book series
- The Apprentice Institute website
- The Apprentice Gathering event (September 22-24, 2024)
Terry Wardle of Healing Care Ministries shares how an emotional breakdown at the height of his “success” in ministry played a pivotal role in moving him from information about God to encounter with God, from performance-oriented to grace-oriented, and from broken to beloved.
Show Notes
[1:00] I'm really curious to hear a little about your story.
[5:32] When there's a pressure in our life, there's a potential gift because we break… Do you find yourself grateful for that?
[8:33] To be willing to look at oneself with God—would you agree that there's a strength that requires from people?
[10:38] What would you like to see the Church do or become in terms of spaces that can handle brokenness or have a word in suffering?
[15:00] We can't take people there [on a healing journey] if we haven't been there ourselves. Would you agree?
[16:14] Do you “walk with a limp?”
[18:57] Have you found…that what often emerges in the healing is something beyond what you or others can imagine, that it's different and wonderful in ways we can't see?
[22:14] You mentioned community earlier. What is the role of community in this?
[24:50] When you were in the hospital…What would have been helpful from your friends there? What could they have done during that time?
[27:48] Could you share a little about the work you're doing with Healing Care Ministries?
[30:07] I'm curious, if you're willing to share, what was your encounter that you had with Jesus those many years ago?
Resources
- Healing Care Ministries website
- From Broken to Beloved, by Terry Wardle
- Some Kind of Crazy: An Unforgettable Story of Profound Brokenness and Breathtaking Grace, by Terry Wardle
- The Flame of Love, by Clark Pinnock
Authors and founders of Unhurried Living, Gem and Alan Fadling, share insights into how we experience soul change, share key questions that open the door to spiritual transformation, and explore the difference between self-help and spiritual formation.
Hip hop artist and author, Sho Baraka, joins Nate to talk about refreshing our theology of work, strengthening the relationship between creatives and the Church, and adding variety to the genres and voices we turn to for spiritual nurture.
[2:08] Could you tell us a little about your book (its creation)?
[6:47] Could you say a little about help for creatives and what you hope to see?
[8:33] One of the things I noticed throughout your book is a concern with the devaluing of the oral tradition and folk stories in Christianity. Could you say a little about that?
[11:20] I’m wondering if there’s a connection [between devaluing oral stories] and losing some of the creativity in Christian life, church life.
[14:55] Your work in hip hop, is that carrying on the oral tradition?
[21:03] Have you been to the African American Smithsonian?
[21:54] There is such a robust history and wisdom in the historical Black church that I feel is often lost on White America. Are there pieces of that tradition that you wish people knew or that you think would be helpful?
[25:11] Could you unpack the term “evangelical edit?”
[26:25] In your book you talk about a conversation you had with your daughter when she was seven, where she came and talked to you about her skin color and hair. Can you tell that story?
[29:51] What do you hope people will take from your book?
Resources
- He Saw That It Was Good, by Sho Baraka
- Album: “The Narrative,” Sho Baraka, 2016
Author and Spiritual Director Sharon Garlough Brown speaks about using the medium of fiction to connect readers to the God who grieves and suffers with us and enlarges our capacity to receive joy.
Show Notes
[2:23] Could you tell us just a little about your love of Van Gogh?
[5:12] Could you talk about how you work with fiction?
[7:13] You go into spiritual direction not really knowing where this time is going to go, but being open. Do you take some of that same posture into your writing?
[10:46] You've gone there in terms of writing about pain and suffering and some difficult topics. What has that been like for you?
[13:20] What do you hope for the reader?
[14:23] Do you see yourself as a fiction writer?
[15:48] How does your work as a pastor and spiritual director inform your stories?
[18:18] Could you talk a little about spiritual friendship?
[22:46] What will that look like for you in Scotland … with these losses?
[28:33] Could you tell us a little about Abiding Way?
Resources
Feathers of Hope, by Sharon Garlough Brown
Abiding Way Ministries
Sharon’s website
A classic talk by Renovaré Ministry Team member and retired pastor Glandion Carney on the collection of practices that create room in his life for dwelling with God and receiving grace.
Author Robyn Wrigley-Carr joins Nathan on this week’s episode to discuss Evelyn Underhill’s Prayer Book.
Show Notes
- Who was Evelyn Underhill?
- Tell me a little bit about her prayer book prior to your visit to the retreat house.
- I’m hearing joy. Was it a joyful process for you?
- She does something bold, taking a prayer from some great Saint and adding her own lines, making her own contribution to it. I found that really special to get to have both people’s prayers together.
- Could you speculate what Evelyn might want people to do with this book?
- One of the things I found exciting is that, a number of the people’s prayers that she quotes I knew the names, but there were a bunch of them I don’t. And you give a little description of them at the end, and I thought, “New friends to explore!”
- Do you keep a prayer book?
- I’ve been collecting prayers for years, my own and others. And I love the idea of curating your own collection, that they all mean something to you.
Resources
- Evelyn Underhill’s Prayer Book, by Robin Wrigley Carr
- The Spiritual Formation of Evelyn Underhill, by Robin Wrigley-Carr
- Music of Eternity: Meditations for Advent with Evelyn Underhill, by Robyn Wrigley-Carr
- The Letters of Evelyn Underhill, edited by Charles Williams
- Letters from Baron Friedrich von Hügel to a Niece, by Friedrich von Hügel
- Pleshy Retreat House
Steve Macchia, author and founder of Leadership Transformations, shares insights on cultivating discernment as a listening lifestyle—rather than merely a decision-making strategy—and how to humbly place God’s agenda ahead of our own.
Show Notes
[:] You take a different spin of sorts on the topic of discernment. Could you share with us a little about some of your thinking on that?
[:] What does a discerning life look like going beyond big decision-making?
[:] What did that look like for you today to lean into discerning life?
[:] You have a phrase in the book that I just love and it's “practicing a preference for God.” Can you talk a little about that?
[:] There's a sort of certain humility that is required to even look or ask. If I got it all figured out, I'm not necessarily going to look for God's opinion on something, right?
[:] The prayer I'll often do is, “Hey, if you've got an opinion here, I’m open.” It just feels good in a way, to go this isn't all about me, right?
[:] There are other times where there’s an ease to it. Do you relate to that?
[:] How do people know they’re on the right track?
[:] What does this look like for a leader? How does discernment work itself out in the day to day?
[:] Leaders want to bring something, want to help, feel an internal or external responsibility to do such, but for you to bring listening, discerning—what you're doing is a ministry to your team, right?
[:] Share with me a couple of things going on with Leadership Transformations that folks could be involved with.
[:] One of your major contributions is the rule of life book. And then the discernment book. Do those intersect?
Resources
The Discerning Life, by Steve Macchia
Crafting a Rule of Life, by Steve Maccia
Steve’s ministry Leadership Transformations
Author Jan Johnson joins Nathan on this week’s episode to discuss Dallas Willard’s book Renovation of the Heart (an upcoming selection for the Renovaré book club), and how to live it out in daily practice.
In this guided audio meditation, Nathan Foster offers a prayer from the heart for Ukraine and the world.
Nathan speaks with one of his favorite authors, Marilyn McEntyre, about why “words matter more than we can imagine.” She explores words as sacraments, as creative forces, as conveyors of truth, and as precious ingredients in the feast called conversation.
Show Notes
[2:21] Where did your love of words begin?
[4:52] Could you explain a little about how caring for words is a moral issue?
[6:34] How about words as art?
[9:15] You take this beyond writing and poetry—into normal conversation?
[14:41] How do you use words as a spiritual practice?
[18:53] What would you say to folks who are just beginning to think in terms of using words with some intentionality?
[21:54] Do you speak other languages? What does that change for you reading in languages besides English? Does it open up a different world for you?
[25:40] I was really moved by your section on felicity. When a word goes out of use in a culture, is it representative that that thing has gone out of use?
[27:55] Do you like Noam Chomsky and his work?
[33:09] What's your “one sentence” about the book?
[34:47] What gives you hope in our culture today, connected to words?
[39:02] What I was hearing was words as a way to love others, to love what's good and right, to care enough about the words we use.
Resources
- Marilyn’s website: marilynmcentyre.com
- Books by Marilyn McEntyre (a sampling)
- Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies
- Speaking Peace in a Climate of Conflict
- When Poets Pray
- Make a List: How a Simple Practice Can Change Our Lives and Open Our Hearts
- Word by Word, A Daily Spiritual Practice
- Richard Foster describes Lectio Divina
- “Politics and the English Language,” essay by George Orwell
- No Passion Spent by George Steiner
How do pastors prevent burn out and keep first things first? Renovaré Ministry Team member Mimi Dixon shares insights and lessons from her decades of experience as a senior pastor.
Show Notes
[1:11] There's an article in Christianity today about pastors that you had mentioned to me. Could you share a little about that?
[6:35] What are some things that you think might be helpful for pastors in this season?
[17:40] And this happened after you let go of the franchise mentality?
[21:32] How does the phrase “first things” play in all this for you?
[25:55] Is that way of doing ministry realistic in this day and age?
[27:58] I’m thinking of when you asked Dallas if he sinned. Could you share with folks the answer?
[36:16] Would you be up for giving a prayer for folks that are in ministry?
Resources
- Renovaré Retreat for Pastors
- “First and Second Things,” God in the Dock pp. 278-280, by C.S. Lewis
Ted Harro joins Nathan Foster to talk about his unexpected journey to become Renovaré’s new president.
Show Notes
[2:53] I caught wind that you were really pushing to get this position. Is that accurate?
[5:51] What changed, to get you in a position where you actually did apply and follow through?
[8:23] How are you feeling about coming into the position?
[8:54] What first drew you to Renovaré as an organization?
[11:25] What was your experience like with the Renovaré Institute?
[13:06] How do you see your background as a consultant helping your work at Renovaré?
[15:49] What do you think it will look like in the coming years?
[19:23] I believe it was Carolyn who asked you, “Well, first hundred days, what are you going to do?” And I believe you just said “listen,” right?
[20:19] You don’t come in with an agenda. Is that accurate?
[20:44] What excites you about this position?
[23:20] What concerns you about stepping into this role?
[25:48] Favorite books?
[27:35] What’s this business about bread?
To write Eugene Peterson's biography, Winn Collier spent considerable time with at the Peterson's home, read Eugene's letters, and conducted countless interviews. He discovered a man with a pastor's heart who, while far from perfect, had integrity and a deep love for God.
Show Notes
[1:40] Are you tired of talking about Eugene now? And if so, why?
[2:26] What do you think Eugene would think about the biography coming out and all the interviews and such?
[3:32] I'm curious to hear, how did you come to write the book, be the biographer?
[8:31] What surprised you in that journey?
[9:39] Eugene was like the anti celebrity, but yet in a sense he was the perfect celebrity, because their hospitality… I've heard so many stories of people who they just invited in.
[11:43] I found it delightful that at the beginning of the book there’s the map of Montana, and it kind of has that, you know, Tolkein feel to it. How important was place, for Eugene?
[14:51] How much do you think some of his thinking was influenced by [his mom]?
[18:37] What do you hope people remember about Eugene?
[20:52] Do you have a favorite story from the book?
[24:30] Eugene did pauses when he talked. What was that like for you when you were interviewing him?
[32:40] It sounds like a number of these values Eugene and Jan embodied you're trying to lean into ... Could you tell folks a little about what you're up to there in Holland, Michigan?
Resources
- The Eugene Peterson Center for Christian Imagination
- Pastor Theologians Podcast
- Connect with Winn Collier on winncollier.com
- Winn’s book A Burning in My Bones (This is the next book featured in the Renovaré Book Club.)
Podcast guest Carol Berry talks with Nate about how she came to know the life of Vincent van Gogh through the teachings of Henri Nouwen, and what she has learned from these two men about solidarity, compassion, and art as a way to touch people’s lives.
Show Notes
- [2:11] Can I tell you about how I discovered Van Gogh?
- [4:18] When did you first begin to love Vincent’s work?
- [7:25] What do you think Vincent was trying to say to people?
- [10:06] Those doors [of pastoral ministry] were closed for him, correct?
- [15:13] I’ve always been curious about Starry Night. The church light… why is it out?
- [16:56] What was it like to sit in Nouwen’s class in 1979?
- [19:05] The compassionate life… can you speak a little about that?
- [22:08] Did you get a sense of Henri’s favorite Van Gogh painting?
- [24:06] Is there any connection you see between the two [men’s lives]?
- [26:51] The end of Vincent’s life… what do you make of how things turned out for him?
- [29:33] You did another book on the spiritual life of Vincent. Can you tell us a little about that book?
- [31:01] How did these two men impact your life?
- [33:14] There’s an honesty in Vincent’s work that I don’t understand, but I think he told the truth. What are your thoughts on that?
Resources
- Learning from Henri Nouwen and Vincent van Gogh: A Portrait of the Compassionate Life, by Carol Berry
- Vincent Van Gogh (Modern Spiritual Masters), by Carol Berry
- Connect with our friends at the Henri Nouwen Society
- Renovaré Podcast Episode 63 with Deirdre LaNoue - The Spiritual Legacy of Henri Nouwen
In this episode, Nathan talks with author and musician Michael Card about hesed, an untranslatable Hebrew word that expresses God’s love and faithfulness. Michael believes it may be the most important word in Scripture and spent ten years writing a book to unpack its meaning.
Show Notes
[2:29] What would you tell your younger self?
[3:05] What is it that you care about these days?
[6:16] You wrote a book about one word. Tell us about the book.
[9:22] What does the word mean to you personally?
[10:31] How do you live into it?
[15:05] I’m noticing in your writings and in your music this love of Scripture. Where did that come from?
[18:31] What do you hope people take away from the book?
[22:25] How do you personally work with Scripture these days?
Resources
- Inexpressible: Hesed and the Mystery of God’s Lovingkindness, by Michael Card
- Michael Card’s website
- “Hymn to the Kindness of God,” from his album To the Kindness of God
Nate talks with author John Eldredge about healing from the trauma of the pandemic, benevolent detachment, what it means to consecrate your empathy to Christ, and learning to hear the voice of God.
Show Notes
[1:19] What was the impetus for this book?
[3:57] I'm glad to hear you reference the pandemic in this way. It has really baffled me how silent people are in terms of its effects. I think it’s going to take 5 or 10 years out of this to realize some of the ways that it has negatively impacted, and I wish people talk more about it.
[8:25] What do you think people should do (to heal their trauma response)?
[15:23] I think I’m hearing that instead of coping mechanism that don’t yield fruit or good results, but coping mechanisms that bring life.
[19:50] I really like the idea of benevolent detachment. How do you detach and yet use your ability to change for good?
[24:26] One of the phrases I’ll use is trusting people to God. As much as I would like to control and manage things, there are some limitations.
[25:06] What does this look like for you, and what are some of the challenges you face in moving into benevolent detachment?
[30:33] Why do you think so many Christians are hung up on the idea of hearing from God?
Resources
- Get Your Life Back: Everyday Practices in a World Gone Mad, by John Eldredge
- Beautiful Outlaw, by John Eldredge
- The One Minute Pause app
Eighteen century preacher and abolitionist John Woolman, whose journal is a Renovaré Book Club selection, had a profound impact on Renovaré founder Richard Foster, who like Woolman is Quaker. In this episode, Richard discusses the life and work of this humble yet bold follower of Jesus.
Show Notes
- How did you discover John Woolman’s Journal?
- What was it, as a college student, reading Woolman’s journal?
- Woolman’s first experience with slavery.
- The story of Benjamin Lay.
- Woolman dealt with the three great isms of our day: racism, militarism, and consumerism.
- Could you help folks understand a little about Quakerism and the Friends?
- Tell us about your doctoral dissertation.
- What would you hope for people reading the book to take away from it?
Resources
- The Journal and Major Essays of John Woolman, edited by Phillips P. Moulton
- Join the Renovaré Book Club to read Woolman's book in December 2021
Nathan talks with author Hannah Anderson about seasons, humility, and how the God we love in scripture is a God who is being revealed through nature.
Show Notes
[1:24] Why do you write?
[2:19] How important is it for you to be honest in your writing?
[8:21] Could you share a little about your draw to the wonder and mystery in nature?
[10:38] How are you in nature, in terms of observing and being?
[12:37] What is it about seasons that you’re drawn to?
[15:06] Make the connection between your experience growing up and appreciating nature and scripture.
[18:04] What are some rhythms or practices for you, being in the created order?
[21:44] How did your book, Turning of Days, come to be?
[24:55] This summer in Colorado the wildflowers were off the charts. I’ve tried learning their names, and the names of the trees. I found in being able to name them, it enriched my experience. Is this a similar experience for you? Am I on the right path?
[29:55] In which Hannah reads a selection from Fall: Section 7 (p. 116)
Resources
- Turning of Days: Lessons from Nature, Season, and Spirit, by Hannah Anderson
- Humble Roots: How Humility Grounds and Nourishes Your Soul, by Hannah Anderson
- Hannah’s website, Sometimes a Light
Spiritual director and author Alice Fryling believes aging is an invitation from God to embrace our limitations and discover fruitfulness and transformation in unexpected places.
Show Notes
[2:13] What was it like for you to write this book?
[5:07] As you’ve been aging, what has been happening in your soul?
[7:56] It’s interesting that the idea of living within our limitations is seen as a negative and something to be fought. Is part of aging learning to live within the limitations that have now presented themselves?
[9:58] As you are talking about your limitations, you’re smiling. How have you gotten to that place where this is not something to be fought and hated, but embracing where you’re at?
[14:29] In the book you talk about productivity and fruitfulness. Can you share about those things?
[17:51] Do you have a word for folks who are really struggling with navigating aging?
[25:57] Why do we fight growing older?
[27:52] You wrote a book on the Enneagram. How is that helpful in aging?
Resources
- Aging Faithfully: The Holy Invitation of Growing Older, by Alice Fryling
- Mirror for the Soul: A Christian Guide to the Enneagram, by Alice Fryling
- Alice's Website
How do we thoughtfully monitor and moderate our consumption of media? How can we fill our minds with what is good and beautiful rather than simply go to media to escape? This episode with Paul Patton—author, playwright, and professor emeritus at Spring Arbor—dives into these questions.
Show Notes
[2:38] I really liked the subtitle you guys came up with for the book. The book is Everyday Sabbath: How to Lead Your Dance with Media and Technology in Mindful and Sacred Ways. It’s a wonderful way to say everything that’s in the book. Tell us a little about the book.
[6:32] Could you unpack a little when you say “dance with pop culture?”
[8:27] Part of what I’m hearing in this dance is to be intentional, to not be a victim. How have you learned to take the lead in the dance?
[9:45] So if I conclude that I’m scrolling through stuff for reward or relief, does that mean I stop?
[11:00] One of the things I appreciate about the book is that this is road tested. The other piece I found helpful is the practices. Could you talk a little bit about how spiritual practices tie into our dance with pop culture?
[18:53] Do we know how to steward our boredom?
[20:10] Historically, when has the term binge ever been positive?
[22:08] A while back we did a podcast on your habit of memorizing, of stewarding the stirrings of your soul. Are you still doing this?
Resources
- Everyday Sabbath: How to Lead Your Dance with Media and Technology in Mindful and Sacred Ways, by Paul Patton and Robert Woods, Jr.
- Renovaré Podcast Episodes with Paul Patton: Leading the Dance with Pop Culture, Story and the Importance of Memorization, We All Have Secrets
- Soul Stirrings Podcast with Paul Patton
In this week’s episode of the Renovaré Podcast, Nathan talks with Charles Moore, of Plough Publishing, about his upcoming book, Following the Call: Living the Sermon on the Mount Together.
Show Notes
[2:55] Why is the Sermon on the Mount so important to you at the Bruderhof community?
[7:18] Tell me a little about your process of making decisions about what to put in the book and what not to.
[10:40] I I'm a little embarrassed to admit that I have failed to grasp how this really was spoken to community and meant to be lived out in community. I'm really curious to hear what that looks like for you guys to try and live this out, and practically, day to day what this looks like.
[14:55] In compiling all the essays, were there new insights that you gained personally or different ways in which you begin to see the sermon on the Mount?
[19:05] Do you have a favorite?
[21:08] Give me your hope for readers. What is your hope for this book?
[24:00] Could you let people know a little about Plough?
Resources
- Following the Call: Living the Sermon on the Mount Together
- Bruderhof Community
Nathan Foster talks with Rich Villodas, lead pastor of New Life Fellowship in Queens, New York, about his book The Deeply Formed Life, which is the first selection of the 2021-22 Renovaré Book Club.
Show Notes
[2:08] Your church has a logo of an iceberg. What’s that about?
[4:28] Tell us about your book, The Deeply Formed Life.
[8:03] Could you talk about each section of the book?
- Contemplative Practices
- Racial Justice and Reconciliation
- Sexual Wholeness
- Missional Presence
[28:12] How was writing this book helpful for you?
Resources
- The Deeply Formed Life
- Renovaré Book Club
In this edited version of a June 2021 webinar conversation, spiritual directors and authors Trevor Hudson and Jan Johnson talk with Carolyn Arends about Christian spiritual direction. They contrast it with counseling, discuss if it's for everyone, and recommend where to find a director.
- For spiritual direction resources and the full unedited replay, visit the webinar page.
- Browse previous Renovaré Podcast conversations with Jan Johnson and Trevor Hudson
In this talk from the 1999 Renovaré International Conference in Houston, following an entertaining introduction by James Bryan Smith, Richard Foster outlines the practical means by which we grow in grace.
Jill Weber is a prayer missionary and author who for the last five years has been establishing a new monastic community at the Waverley Abbey Estate in the U.K. Her desire is to cultivate "thin spaces" where Jesus is loved.
Show Notes
[2:12] Could you share with us about the Waverly project you’ve been working on for the past 5 years, and also about Order of the Mustard Seed.
[10:45] What does it look like for you personally to hold those practices and values in front of you.
[19:50] What do you say to people who are carrying a lot and not having room to go beyond their own family or the struggles that they are in? A friend of mine (Bill Vaswig) taught me much about prayer. When I go into certain spaces where there is so much suffering, and I’m just overwhelmed by it and don’t know what to do, he said, “Nate, you’re supposed to pray. You see all this so you can pray. Just walk around and lift them up.”
[25:25] What is your hope for the community at this old abbey; what would you like to see happen in the years to come?
[33:28] How does discernment work in your community? When you make a decision to move forward, what does that process look like?
[40:35] You can extend this to a church, ministry, family, or small group, to pause and ask if there are apologies that need to be made or repentance. God seems so intent on his children playing well together.
Resources
- Jill Weber on Episode 187: Holy Disruption
- 24-7 Prayer
- Order of the Mustard Seed
- Ruth Haley Barton, Pursuing God’s Will Together
- Richard Foster, Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True Home
- Transforming Center
The Prayer of Relinquishment
Today, O Lord, I yield myself to you.
May your will be my delight today.
May you have perfect sway in me.
May your love be the pattern of my living.
I surrender to you my hopes, my dreams, my ambitions.
Do with them what you will, when you will, as you will.
I place into your loving care my family, my friends, my future.
Care for them with a care that I can never give.
I release into your hands my need to control, my craving for status, my fear of obscurity.
Eradicate the evil, purify the good, and establish your Kingdom on earth.
For Jesus’ sake,
Amen.
In this episode, Nathan interviews Alan Fadling of Unhurried Living, Kristi Gaultiere of Soul Shepherding, and Steve Macchia of Leadership Transformations to discuss spiritual formation and soul care for leaders.
Show Notes
[5:45] Why leaders? What was it in you that you felt to compelled to move in that direction?
[9:55] What are some of the challenges that leaders in the Christian community face today?
[13:20] I’d take it a little further and say that in our current society it’s a virtue not to rest, to keep pushing through. How does a leader break out of that system that is pulling them do to more and more, and of being more closed, of not sharing or not feeling safe or that there is space to share?
[18:10] All three of you provide safe spaces for people. What would you say to someone who's not connected to a program or ministry that’s caring for their soul, who really wants to be open, vulnerable, honest? How do you do that when you’re surrounded in a community that needs you to have everything together?
[25:17] When we rest or slow down, sometimes emotions come up, and that’s quite normal. This is a unique season in history that is an opportunity for a reset, a chance to make some shifts. How can lay folk best help their leaders?
[31:45] What is the Biblical view of sabbatical?
[33:00] These 3 pieces of covenant and support and sabbatical – What if elder boards demanded a sort of health; not just encouraging sabbatical (and boundaries and rest and health) but demanding it, setting it as a way we’re going to be as a ministry. I think sometimes people just need a little permission to move into some of this.
[37:25] Do you have any thoughts for leaders or families on how to do this well?
[42:50] Can you paint a picture of a leader who’s doing things well, who’s functioning with health and being effective for the Kingdom. What does their life look like?
[47:26] How do you guys, as leaders, care for your soul?
Guest Websites
- Alan Fadling at Unhurried Living
- Kristi Gaultiere at Soul Shepherding
- Steve Macchia at Leadership Transformations
Mark Scandrette talks with Nathan Foster about seeing the world the way Jesus did, the hiddenwisdom in the Beatitudes, and applying the Sermon on the Mount to everyday life.
Show Notes
[1:10] What was Jesus doing with these weird sayings, these Beatitudes?
[2:15] How do you think it was received by the hearers?
[4:38] In your work, you have 2 lines: “this is a new way to be human,” and “a journey back to reality.” Where do you take the Beatitudes for us today?
[6:15] Could you address this idea of our first instincts and new postures?
[11:40] Is there one that has been the most challenging or difficult?
[20:35] Is there a movement toward a practical practice as we move into this reality?
[22:50] This book was born out of practical labs. Can you tell us a little about that?
[25:50] What would you like to see happen for those who read the book?
[26:35] In your travels around the world, what have you picked up from Christians around the world that would be helpful for us in the West?
Resources
- Mark Scandrette’s Website
- The Ninefold Path of Jesus: Hidden Wisdom of the Beatitudes
- The Ninefold Path Learning Lab
In this episode, philosopher J.P. Moreland shares honestly about his experience with severe anxiety, and the spiritual practices that helped him receive receive God's peace.
[1:08] I’m really interested to know how a philosophy professor ends up writing a book on anxiety and depression.
[3:53] The other thing you do that I found really helpful is that you address a lot of concerns that Christians might have about mental health or medication or self-compassion. Have you found that to be well-received or have you gotten pushback from that?
[5:35] One of the pieces that I found really helpful in the book is you continue to go back to all these practices and very practical things that have worked for you, yet leaving it open for not being totally prescriptive for people. I'm curious to hear a little about your journey with contemplative prayer and how that has helped you with anxiety.
[8:00] Could you say a little about the four-step solution process?
[16:50] What was it like to crash for all those months? Are you healed?
[22:10] How important were Biblical passages for you?
[22:40] What would you say to someone listening who is really struggling with anxiety and maybe has some self-condemnation or shame around it?
[28:45] For folks who have friends and family, spouses, that are struggling with anxiety, is there a word you might have for the best way they can love each other through this?
Resources by J.P. Moreland:
- Finding Quiet: My Story of Overcoming Anxiety and the Practices that Brought Peace
- jpmoreland.com
From the Renovaré 1999 international conference, Dallas Willard talks about what it means for our lives to become eternal—to be caught up into God's life.
One of the highlights of attending a Renovaré conference back in the 1990s and 2000s was George Skramstad leading songs and hearing his "History of Worship" presentation from the piano. Nathan talks with George about worship as expressed in music and life.
Show Notes
[3:35] How did you get into music professionally?
[6:32] What do you like about music?
[8:00] When you are leading worship, what do you hope is happening?
[10:57] Why is the word worship synonymous with music?
[12:34] You’ve created a masterpiece that we get to talk about today, and I’m very curious to know how this came to be.
[15:48] Why do you think is helpful for folks to catch this big picture of the worship of Christians through the ages?
[17:58] Do you have a favorite era in church music?
Resources
- George's six part presentation The History of Worship.
- Article: The Story of Worship
- Article: Finding the Heart of Worship
Luci Shaw's zest for life is contagious. At 92, the poet and writer is still discovering and creating. She talks with Nathan Foster about her new book, The Generosity, her creative process, and her close friendship with Madeleine L'Engle.
Show Notes
[2:40] Where did the title of new book, Angels Everywhere, come from?
[3:37] The Generosity – where did that title come from?
[7:55] Would it be safe to say that your dad was a kind of inspiration and helped encourage you as a poet?
[12:48] How has your writing as a poet changed through the years?
[15:21] How would you like people to read your poetry?
[16:42] In which Luci reads a poem she wrote yesterday called April.
This day,
this springy day,
I claim the never-ending
Sky for ceiling
And in the little rooms of my life
I cultivate seasons
As if they are flowering vines
Growing across my bedspread.
And grapes maybe,
Or seeds,
Our promises of July
Sleeping underground
Waking and awakening
A green resurrection.
On all our ancient trees
Rising sap
Has thickened the twigs
Until they sprout a thousand
Honey colored catechins
Heavy enough to swing in the wind,
Flinging in the bursts of wild air
Their lusty spores.
Pollen,
Though it may be an affliction,
Promotes new life
And the cherry trees exploding
With their frothy pink blossoms.
It is all joy,
All gratitude,
All grace.
[19:42] What was it like working with Madeleine L’Engle?
[22:45] In which Luci reads a poem she also wrote yesterday called Daybook:
This day is a book still unfolding,
a suspense novel—
we recognize the genre
with clues from the morning paper.
We are beguiled by the headlines
of sun struck clouds
and dew wet enough
to rinse our hands in.
The plot is original.
We can only guess
how it will turn out.
So we follow the narrative arc,
reading it through
the burn and blaze of high noon
all the way to the last page.
Until like an ancient writer
the night writes fini
and the stars endorse
the grateful author.
[24:51] What would you say to folks who are thinking of writing poetry or beginning?
[30:26] In which Luci reads Pilgrim from The Generosity:
Meaning is a landscape
Of boulders.
There, ahead of you,
A thorny wilderness.
You cannot leap over it. You
Must conquer it stone by stone.
To traverse it,
You must find sure footing
And fortitude
In uncertain weather,
Your fear like metal
In your mouth.
And yes, it is possible
To walk the knife edge of longing,
A blade narrow
As the path to heaven.
Resources
- Cosmos from Chaos: Renovaré Webinar with Luci Shaw and Andrew Peterson
- Luci Shaw's Website
- The Generosity from Publisher or on Amazon
- Angels Everywhere
- People Luci mentions:
- Clyde Kilby
- Mark Jarman, poet
- Andrew Hudgins, poet
- Carolyn Forché, poet
- Eugene Peterson, The Message (esp. Psalm and Wisdom book)
- Winn Collier, A Burning in My Bones (Eugene Peterson biography)
James Catford, board chair at Renovaré and SPCK (UK's largest Christian publisher), talks to Nathan about a wonderfully practical book with an austere title: William Law's A Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life.
James is facilitating the Renovaré Book Club starting in April 2021.
In the episode, you'll hear Richard Foster and Dallas Willard introducing the book at the 1999 Renovaré International Conference.
Show Notes
[10:32] How has William Law’s book been helpful to you?
[12:45] How did the intersection of work and spiritual life play out for you?
[14:59] Did you find integration?
[20:53] In a culture that wouldn’t be drawn to the title, ironically there is grace in this.
[22:16] What are some of the considerations, culturally, that people should come at this book with?
[24:40] He presents the idea that everything is sacred. Where does beauty come in?
[26:36] How does Law’s view of holiness lend itself to engaging with beauty, or does it?
[29:15] In a sense this is a work that helps us move closer into being people who function well.
Resources
- A Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life (this is the version being used for the Renovaré Book Club)
- O Worship the Lord in the Beauty of Holiness
Writer, teacher, and pastor Keith Matthews had the unique opportunity to teach beside Dallas Willard for 18 years. Pastors and students who had read Dallas would often come and say: "We know his writing is special, but we're here to find out if he's for real."
In this episode, Nathan and Keith discuss Dallas Willard's thoughts on character, his legacy, and the work being carried on through Dallas Willard Ministries, the Dallas Willard School of Kingdom Living, and the newly formed Dallas Willard Publishing.
Show Notes
[6:00] Tell me the story of when you first met Dallas.
[9:50] What did you learn from him?
[14:20] He was once asked what one of the defining characteristics of Jesus life was, and he answered with the word relaxed, is that correct?
[19:35] Many people have picked up and are working with his work and ideas. Are you encouraged by that? Do you see holes or things that are lacking?
[22:00] What does that look like for you, living daily with Christ?
[23:40] On Dallas Willard Publications, how is it going and are there books in the works? Do you have a favorite Dallas book, or one you would recommend to people who have not read him before?
[28:40] Tell us about the Dallas Willard School of Kingdom Living.
Resources
- The Divine Conspiracy
- The Great Omission
- Renewing the Christian Mind
- Dallas Willard Ministries
- School of Kingdom Living
"Let's all get maladjusted to a world gone mad," sings Carolyn Arends. In this episode, she shares two songs from her new album—"Maladjusted" and "To Cry for You"—and the stories behind them. You can find Carolyn's music at her website, CarolynArends.com.
Show Notes
[1:00] Tell us about your new album Recognition. Many of the songs feel like Renovaré-birthed songs.
[4:30] Did I have something to do with the idea behind the song Maladjusted?
[7:30] How do you decipher a cultural value that is not necessarily a kingdom value? How do you sift through what you should adjust to and what you shouldn't?
[12:40] Carolyn plays Malajusted
[14:25] What is behind the song To Cry for You?
[20:40] Grief is a good topic to be talking about now as people talk about our experience with the pandemic as grief. One of my favorite quotes is "feelings always come out." There is something about allowing ourselves to be in the suffering that births an ability to be in the blessing, the goodness, the gift.
[24:15] Carolyn plays To Cry for You
[25:50] Look for Carolyn’s new project – In the Morning - an acoustic worship album with songs that help unlock our hearts to what God wants to do in our midst.
Resources
- CarolynArends.com
In this episode, Nathan asks candid questions about race: What's your experience of being black in America? What do you want white people to know? What is the Church's role? Tina Dyer, a racial equity, diversity, strategist and now Renovaré Board member, answers with honesty and humility.
Eric Peterson used to hide from people who his dad was. Not that he was ashamed—his dad is his hero, as you'll hear in this interview—but he needed to establish his own voice and identity. Now an author and long-time pastor himself, he's glad to say, "Eugene Peterson, that's my dad."
If we cannot trust God to keep bad things from happening to us or to those we love, how do we trust God at all? Author and Anglican priest Tish Harrison Warren wrestles with this question in her new book and in this conversation with Nathan Foster.
Richard Foster helps introduce a new podcast from Renovaré called Friends in Formation, featuring Nathan Foster, James Catford, and Richella Parham.
Eric Eugene Peterson has devoted much of his pastoral life to studying, teaching, and trying to live into what many think of as a one-time act: baptism. Eric helps us dive deeper into the waters of this well-known sacrament.
Lacy Borgo talks with Nathan about prayer, play, Psalms of lament, and "holding center" in a pandemic while being married to an ER doctor.
"Jesus' way of being lifted up is not the way of the world," says author Marlena Graves. "Nouwen called it downward mobility...You might not win accolades but you will bring great joy to God and you will do much good in the world." She talks with Nathan about her new book The Way Up Is Down.
Roger Fredrikson, part of Renovaré's Ministry Team, would have celebrated his 100th birthday in November 2020. In this message from the 1999 Renovaré International Conference, his topic is from The Divine Conspiracy, on moving beyond sin management. Dallas Willard and Richard Foster join for Q&A.
Put on some headphones, find a comfortable spot, and set your heart and mind on Psalm 19 in this 15-minute guided meditation. This "audio retreat" is a collaboration with Joshua Banner from The Invitation Podcast.
Author and spiritual director Fil Anderson takes us deep into the heart, or as he puts it, the womb of mercy. “I’ve come to believe mercy is the most defining characteristic of God.”
"Every tongue tribe and nation will be together in heaven," says author and counselor Sheila Wise Rowe, "we have an opportunity to figure out how to do that now." She talks with Nathan Foster about racial trauma, and how healing comes through community.
What kinds of healthy risks should we take? How do we discern God's voice? What if I'm in too much pain to pray? Carolyn Arends asks these and other listener questions to Pete Greig (founder of the 24-7 Prayer movement) and Lisa Koons (24-7 Prayer USA Director) in this webinar recap bonus episode.
"You cannot think a spiritual muddle clear, you have to obey it clear." Oswald Chamber's words helped singer-songwriter and Director of Communications Brian Morykon overcome resistance and start a new album. He chats with Nathan about fear versus humility, joy in obedience, and shares two new songs.
When the life of Pastor Juanita Rasmus came to a screeching halt after what her counselor called "a major depressive episode," she found that she had to learn to be—with herself and with God—all over again. She talks with Nathan about that season which is captured in her new book, Learning to Be.
Diane Bolduc believes the local church could benefit from the rigorous honesty found in recovery programs like AA. Having experienced transformation through 12-step recovery, she and her husband now lead a ministry to help others find freedom from addiction.
Cindy Bunch, director of editorial at InterVarsity Press, believes that cultivating compassion toward self is a way to cultivate compassion toward others. This is at the heart of her new book_Be Kind to Yourself, which she talks with Nathan Foster about in this episode.
Myisha Cunningham is the Senior Pastor of Raven-Brook Recovery Church. From the context of being a black woman in a denomination with mostly white male leadership, she brings welcome perspective on race, white privilege, and how individuals and churches can obey the two greatest commandments.
Beth and David Booram, spiritual directors and cofounders of an urban retreat center in Indianapolis, invite us to look for God in places we normally overlook, and listen for God in places we might try to ignore (like negative feelings).
The joy of surrendering to Jesus is evident in Jill Weber's voice. Her "yes" to God took her on an unexpected journey—including helping found the Greater Ontario House of Prayer, and now her work as Global Convener of the Order of the Mustard Seed, a lay ecumenical religious order.
Author and professor David Taylor—known for producing a short film with Eugene Peterson and Bono—talks with Nathan Foster about rediscovering the Psalms, a book that can "help us name reality so that we can live in it."
We’re all going through this together. That's unique for a crisis. This also means everyone at various levels is grieving. Fil Anderson chats with Nathan Foster about how to recognize—rather than minimize—what we've lost and bring it to Jesus so that we can heal.
In this classic talk from the Renovaré 1999 international conference, Dallas Willard explains how, no matter what hurt may come, the world is a perfectly safe place for us to be when we entrust ourselves to God's care.
An accomplished business leader in the defense and aerospace sector, Lane Cohee came to learn he couldn't control away life's trouble. But he could release that imagined control to Jesus and find peace for his disquieted soul, as he shares in this honest conversation with Nathan Foster.
Pastor, worship leader, and gospel recording artist Donn Thomas shares about his personal battle with cancer, how worship is a weapon for overcoming fear, and how his church is thriving in a stay-at-home context.
Responding to listener questions, retired pastor Dr. Miriam (Mimi) Dixon and Renovaré President Chris Hall offer practical ways to think and act in redeeming ways in the unexpected learning space of an international crisis.
An audio meditation led by Nathan Foster to help us set our minds on what is good, beautiful, and true in the midst of uncertainty.
When it comes to the Charismatic Stream, Renovaré president Chris Hall coaches, "Avoid cookie cutter paradigms." He shares with Nathan Foster personal stories of experiencing the Holy Spirit in unexpected ways.
In 1991, members of a small church gathered for eight weeks to hear Dallas Willard teach on Psalm 23. Nearly three decades later the pastor of that church, Larry Burtoft, along with Dallas's daughter Rebecca Willard Heatley compiled those talks into a book. They join Nathan Foster to talk about it.
Renovaré Ministry Team member and author Dr. Lacy Borgo has years of experience working with (and raising!) children, learning from them how to enter the Kingdom of God. She joins Nathan Foster on the podcast about her new book Spiritual Conversations with Children: Listening to God Together.
Nathan talks with Richard Foster about the history and future of Renovaré events–including the story of the name behind the new event, The Foxtail. Learn more at renovare.org/foxtail
"I was drawn to Interior Castle as a field guide," says Renovaré Team Member and retired pastor Miriam (Mimi) Dixon, "for how I could cooperate with the Holy Spirit more directly in the transformation of my heart." In this in-depth interview with Nathan Foster, Mimi helps us understand Teresa of Ávila's classic work.
Some think of the Contemplative Tradition as "me, Jesus, and a candle". Candlelit time with Jesus is beautiful, but how does that relate to community? Do contemplative practices like silent prayer work with others? Renovaré Director of Education Carolyn Arends discusses with Nathan Foster.
"We invite the one who loves us into our awareness... and the Spirit at the same time is inviting us to be aware and be awake." Writer and spiritual director Jean Nevills talks with Nathan Foster how to be present to God in all of life.
Read Jean's original essay related to this podcast, Light Enough to Live By.
"Your gifts don't serve to show me up, they serve to hold me up." Author and Renovaré Ministry team member Richella Parham continues her conversation with Nathan Foster about how to overcome the trap of comparison.
"We'll cross into the Kingdom but we'll keep our options open for crossing out again." James Catford, Renovaré Board Chair appointee and former British Bible Society Chief Executive, helps us see the Bible not so much as a map but a companion for moving deeper into life in the Kingdom of God.
Author and Renovaré Ministry team member Richella Parham talks with Nathan Foster about her new book Mythical Me: Finding Freedom from Constant Comparison.
Issues of social justice can be polarizing. And they can be paralyzing—with so much injustice in the world, where does one begin? "Don't be frozen," Richard Foster advises. "Start somewhere. Look for a situation you can help with and step in." That begins in small ways, right where you are.
When Saving Moses founder Sarah Bowling refers to Holy Spirit, she leaves out "the." It reminds us that the third person of the Trinity is indeed a person, the Helper sent by Jesus to dwell in us. She joins Nathan on the podcast to discuss the Charismatic stream and being led by the Spirit.
"Redeemed pain is more impressive than removed pain." Philip Yancey chats with Nathan Foster about the human body, the Body of Christ, what matters most, and the way Philip's life was forever changed by the years he spent with renowned physician Dr. Paul Brand.
Holiness is the power to be the kind of person the God wants us to be. Charismatic is the power to do the works of God. Richard Foster encourages us to not be afraid to wade into this often misunderstood and sometimes despised tradition of the Church.
"We were not made to run on our own. We were made to run and do our work on the power of God." In this classic talk, Dallas Willard recaptures the beauty and goodness of holiness, the power to do what needs to be done when it needs to be done.
"Responding well under fire, using power rightly, well-functioning, life-affirming." Those phrases usually aren't the first to come to mind for most who hear the word "holiness." In this interview, Richard Foster helps reclaim the word and remind us that a holy life is a beautiful thing.
This interview continues a series on the six major Christian traditions outlined in Richard's book Streams of Living Water. To dig deeper, see the Renovaré webpage on The Six Streams and Richard Foster's book Streams of Living Water.
Inspired by the prayer chapter in The Divine Conspiracy, author and Renovaré Ministry Team member Emilie Griffin gives a talk on prayer at the 1999 Renovaré International Conference in Houston. It's followed by a special Q&A with Richard Foster and Dallas Willard.
"I will set the Lord always before me." These words from Psalm 16 are the crux of the Contemplative Tradition, or the Prayer-filled Life. Nathan Foster interviews his father Richard Foster, continuing a series on the six major Christian traditions, or streams, outlined in Richard's book Streams of Living Water.
Jon Bailey, Renovaré Board Chair and serial entrepreneur, knows technology can distract and harm. But his belief that it can also be used for good led him to co-create the Scripture listening app Dwell. Its thoughtful music was scored by Steinway artist and composer Chad Lawson, who also joins this episode.
Renovaré listeners can learn more and get 33% off a Dwell membership at dwellapp.io/renovare.
Listen to the music Chad composed for the app on Apple Music or Spotify.
For more, see the Renovaré webpage on The Six Streams and Richard Foster's book Streams of Living Water.
Despite the fact that evangelicals can be "know-it-alls who tend to start something new because others 'don't get it,'" author and president of Leadership Transformations Steve Macchia says there are still gifts to be rediscovered in the evangelical tradition.
To begin a series on the six major Christian traditions, or streams, outlined in the book Streams of Living Water, Nathan Foster talks with his father Richard Foster about one of the most misunderstood streams: Evangelical, or The Word-Centered Life.
The slaveholding mentality, which many American Christians assume is past, continues to distort the way we read Scripture and think about each other. With gentleness and humility, Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove shares how we can find freedom in the way of Jesus.
Resurrection Sunday is just the beginning. The church calendar sets aside fifty days to celebrate the resurrection. Teacher, author, and Renovaré Ministry Team member Lacy Borgo shares the why and how of Eastertide.
"Advent and Lent are like little door jambs to crack open space in our hearts." In a tender conversation with Nathan Foster, singer/songwriter and Renovaré Director of Education Carolyn Arends shares her journey with the church calendar and remembers her mom who recently passed.
When Jesus finds Mary crying at his tomb, he doesn't try to cheer her up or change her. He simply asks, "Why are you weeping?" In this moving talk—interspersed with pauses and contemplative music for reflection—author and pastor Trevor Hudson helps us listen to our pain and find Christ in our tears.
Lent is the season when people give up things they enjoy. But is that even a good idea? What's the litmus test for observing Lent—or any spiritual practice, for that matter? Author, pastor, and Renovaré Institute instructor Trevor Hudson offers some liberating answers in this interview with Nathan Foster.
Most Christians practice spiritual disciplines long before they know what a spiritual discipline is. For Jean Nevills, spiritual director and Renovaré Ministry Team member, celebration was a normal part of her upbringing and is part of everyday life now. In this conversation with Nathan Foster, she makes celebration practical.
Written by an anonymous author in the 14th century, The Cloud of Unknowing serves as a guide to Christian contemplation. For guest James Catford, Renovaré board member and former British Bible Society Chief Executive, it's a "lifetime book." Nathan Foster draws out James's insights on the book.
A good translation of Philippians 4:4 is, "Celebrate in the Lord, always." But what does that mean in practical terms? Author and teacher Jan Johnson joins Nathan Foster again to discuss being glad with God in the present moment.
Is learning to discern God's voice a fundamental spiritual discipline? Evan Howard believes so and joins Nathan Foster to share how God leads us. Evan's Ph.D. is in the area of Christian Discernment, and he teaches at institutions including Fuller Theological Seminary.
"There's a difference between someone's words and someone's voice." Spiritual director and author Fil Anderson talks with Nathan Foster about learning to love and discern the sound of God's voice.
Dallas Willard once said, "If you don't come away for a while, you will come apart after a while." Ruth Haley Barton, author of Invitation to Retreat, joins Nathan to talk about the gift and necessity of retreat where we rest, unplug, and relinquish ourselves to God.
Losing someone close opens up new perspectives and a deep gratitude for that person's life. Songwriter, worship leader, and Renovaré Director of Communications Brian Morykon reflects on worship in the light of the loss of his mentor and friend Scott Baker.
Vices are bad habits we can rely upon to make our lives not work. So why do we do them? How do we get to the bottom of our sin-symptoms and allow The Master Physician to heal the root causes? Rebecca DeYoung, author of Glittering Vices and Vainglory, talks with Nathan Foster about ordering our loves. The Renovaré Bookclub is reading Glittering Vices together—learn more at renovare.org/bookclub.
Sometimes the voice, message, and volume of our secrets can dominate us. Enter confession, a spiritual practice that helps us receive forgiveness and healing. To explore this liberating spiritual discipline, Nathan Foster welcomes back Paul Patton, author, playwright, former pastor, and now artist in residence at Spring Arbor University.
"There's a lot of times people romanticize service work. It's not like that...It breaks my heart… it unravels me… People ask, 'do you have to always feel it?' I don't know how'd you'd love without feeling it." Sarah Bowling, founder of humanitarian organization Saving Moses, joins Nathan Foster again to talk about the spiritual discipline of service.
At a 2018 Renovaré Pastoral Leadership Conference, workshops were given on spiritual disciplines. Directed at pastors but applicable to all, James Catford, Renovaré board member and former British Bible Society Chief Executive, presented on the heart of service.
Nathan and Richard Foster bring us along for a hike on a Colorado trail as they have a heart to heart chat about solitude, silence, leadership, and special rocks.
Zane Creamer is a graduate of the Renovaré Institute and the Women's Ministries Director at Crossroads Church in Raleigh, NC. Nathan Foster chats with Zane—an extrovert—about how solitude transformed the way she spends time with God.
Listen in as Director of Education Carolyn Arends and President Chris Hall discuss how we choose Book Club books, why it's important to read substantive books that we might not agree with, and how to read empathetically.
"There's nothing I ever read or heard him say that he didn't live." Rebecca Willard Heatley carries on the work of her father Dallas Willard by compiling and editing his unpublished works. She joins Nathan Foster in this interview to talk candidly about life growing up as Dallas's daughter.
Simplicity is a matter first of the heart, so the external expression of it will look different for different people. For authors and professors Mark and Lisa McMinn, it looks like running Fern Creek, an organic farm in Oregon.
Damon Seacott can fit everything he owns into a car—but he's not a college student. Damon, a Quaker and former Chief of Staff at Spring Arbor University, simply prefers to make people more important than things. Nathan Foster talks with him about Simplicity.
Christian Simplicity is first a matter of the heart—practicing the presence of Jesus. Only then can external simplicity and frugality be truly life-giving. Nathan and Richard Foster explain why in this brief conversation.
Simplicity doesn't mean we don't have anything. It's viewing ourselves as stewards of what God has given us to provide for ourselves and share with others. Mimi Dixon joins Nathan Foster again to remind us that in God there is always enough.
Simplicity is a gentle call to tear back the clutter of life, relationships, possessions, and schedule—anything that keeps us from the abundant life God invites us into. Nathan Foster unpacks simplicity with Jan Johnson, author of Abundant Simplicity: Discovering the Unhurried Rhythms of Grace.
Spiritual director and author Fil Anderson and lawyer Justin Campbell talk with Nathan Foster about how to study for transformation instead of just information.
Renovaré President Chris Hall has spent his life studying the ancient Christians known as the desert fathers and mothers. From a recent Westmont University academic conference, Chris talks about the desert as a "learning space"—a place where the Spirit can put to death in us that which destroys our ability to love.
Author and Renovaré Institute instructor Trevor Hudson delivers a passionate message on Romans 8 at First Baptist Church in Vancouver, BC.
"It's a way to clean the engine... it hones... It's a rich adventure." That's how Sarah Bowling, founder of a global humanitarian organization called Saving Moses, talks about fasting in this interview with Nathan Foster.
Sometimes when you meet a person later in life it's hard to imagine them any other way. But like all of us, Dallas Willard had a formation. It's told in the new biography Becoming Dallas Willard. Nathan talks with Dallas' daughter Rebecca (Becky), and the book's author Gary Moon.
Fasting is a way to expand our capacity to enjoy God, to participate with God, to put ourselves in a place where his power can more freely flow through us for the sake of blessing others. Long-time pastor and Renovaré board member Mimi Dixon reframes fasting as feasting on God in this interview with Nathan Foster.
Soon the Renovaré Book Club begins Chris Hall's book Living Wisely With the Church Fathers. Nathan Foster talks with Chris who helps us apply the ancient wisdom of the church fathers to our modern lives. renovare.org/bookclub
"For those who like things difficult, we can make it complicated. But it's not intended to be. It's meant to be a living, loving relationship." That's one of the many special moments from this tender Q&A podcast on prayer with Nathan and Richard Foster.
There is no formula for prayer. "We're talking about a human-Divine relationship," says Lacy Borgo. Prayer may look like sitting with God "doing nothing," as Lacy shares, or fervently interceding for others as Renovaré Ministry Team member Gayle Withnell often does—or both and more.
"Ours is a church on mission, not a church with a mission. It's a very uncomfortable place to be consumeristic." Cris Rogers is Rector of All Hallows' Church in Bow, London. His passion for prayer, community, and making authentic disciples of Jesus is evident in this conversation with Nathan Foster.
Dallas Willard believed it was possible to live a life without fear, a life without lack. A new book by that name is now available from the late philosopher, based on a series of talks he gave on Psalm 23. Nathan talks with Dallas' daughter Rebecca, and Jan Johnson who worked closely with him.
How did Jesus meditate? Is it possible to meditate while doing other things? Those questions and others are answered today by Richard Foster, Steve Fawver, and Jan Johnson on today's podcast hosted by Nathan Foster.
Meditation is like savoring a delicious meal one slow bite at a time. Author Jan Johnson and Pastor Steve Fawver share practical insights on how meditation helps us to taste and see that the Lord is good.
Today's podcast is a 20-minute meditation—an audio retreat—on Psalm 131. Put on some headphones, find a comfortable spot, and let your soul be quieted. This episode is a collaboration with Joshua Banner from The Invitation Podcast (invitationpodcast.org).
Continuing our focus on one Spiritual Discipline per month, we turn our attention to meditation—specifically, and it's important here to be specific, Christian meditation. Nathan Foster shares why and how to fill our minds and hearts with what is lovely, good, praiseworthy, and true.
"Submit yourselves to one another out of reverence for Christ." This verse in Ephesians 5 is the cornerstone of the discipline of submission. Listen in on a discussion with Richard Foster, Steve Fawver, Lacy Borgo, and Nathan Foster in this week's panel-style episode.
Robert Moore-Jumonville (MoJo), Professor at Spring Arbor, joins Nate again to discuss how Screwtape Letters, in its diabolical way, teaches discernment. MoJo is facilitating the book in the Renovaré Book Club.
These days, the word "submit" usually brings to mind one person exerting power over another. In this episode, Nate's guests—pastor/professor Steve Fawver and spiritual director and Renovaré ministry team member Lacy Borgo—reframe submission as a powerful choice to yield to God and others.
Celebration of Discipline turns forty this year and our articles and podcasts will focus on one discipline per month. Since yielding to God is the goal of all spiritual disciplines, it's fitting to start this journey with Submission. In this episode, Nathan Foster reminds us why disciplines aren't "twelve new things to fail at" but rather entry points to life with God.
What is the biggest humanitarian crisis of our day? It's refugees, says author Cindy Wu, who joins Nathan again to talk about her new book about refugees. The issue is vast and complex, but Cindy shares simple and practical ways for us to welcome the stranger in our midst.
Marti Ensign, Renovaré Ministry Team member and former missionary to Africa, joins Nate again to share the unusual way her storytelling gift came to be. This podcast includes Marti telling "Binyoni," a story that was a favorite of Corrie Ten Boom. Marti is facilitating Corrie's book The Hiding Place in the Renovaré Book Club - renovare.org/bookclub
Jon and Josh Bailey, brothers, serial entrepreneurs, and creators of an upcoming app called Dwell, join Nate today to talk about the importance of listening to Scripture and why they're creating the app.
Marti Ensign, a long-time Renovaré Ministry Team member, was a missionary in Africa and friend of Corrie Ten Boom. Hear a first-hand perspective on Corrie's life from someone who knew her well. Marti is facilitating Corrie's book The Hiding Place in the Renovaré Book Club - renovare.org/bookclub
Author Jim Schaap joins again this week, this time reading a story from his book Finding Christmas: Stories of Startling Joy and Perfect Peace. Merry Christmas!
James (Jim) Schaap is an author, Professor Emeritus of English at Dordt College in Iowa, and a riveting storyteller. In this episode he shares his version of the Christmas truce of 1914.
Advent means "the coming." In this episode Patty Kirk, writer in residence and associate professor of English at John Brown University, reminds us that Advent is a time for hope, a time to ask, "What good am I expecting?"
In this Advent season of expectation, Renovaré Ministry team member and author Richella Parham joins Nathan again to talk about what she calls the liturgy of waiting.
Chris Hall went with Shane Claiborne recently to visit inmates on death row. They join Nate again this week to talk about what God's restorative justice looks like.
Chris Hall along with Shane Claiborne, author and founder of the Simple Way in Philadelphia, join Nate to talk about stepping out of your comfort zone with God.
“Something happens when you age—you realize life isn't all about you. It's about what you're able to offer to another.” In this episode Nate talks with Steve Macchia about his new book Legacy, a collection of life reflections given to his kids on his 60th birthday.
Renovaré Director of Education Carolyn Arends spoke recently at Pacific Community Church on the true power of being meek.
Wendell Berry is the kind of writer that when you read his work it can change the way you live. Ragan Sutterfield, author and Episcopal priest in training, talks this week about Berry, sabbath, and permaculture—working with God's order instead of manipulating the world to our own ends.
When the love of God is experienced—known deeply and personally with the heart—it gives us courage to face our brokenness and be vulnerable with one another. Chris Webb returns to talk on that topic and others from his new book God Soaked Life, which is part of the upcoming Renovaré Book Club.
Podcast editor Brian Morykon interviews Nathan Foster and they share a few favorite clips from the first 100 episodes.
Chris Webb is an Anglican priest, author, and former president of Renovaré. He shares stories of his past ministry in churches in the idyllic Welsh countryside, and gives some needed perspective and advice for the American church.
"Compassion is the experience of a heart that has known its own suffering and has been made expansive by the healing power of the love of God." Juanita Rasmus, co-pastor of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Downtown Houston, shares on social justice at Westmont College.
Josh Banner, host of The Invitation Podcast, joins Nate again to discuss his journey into making audio prayer retreats, and how ministry is as simple as being present to others.
Take a 20 minute "audio retreat" as Nathan Foster unfolds a quote from Julian of Norwich to guide us into prayer. This episode is a collaboration with Joshua Banner from The Invitation Podcast (invitationpodcast.org).
How can a woman whose family and community is ravaged by the Black Death say, "All shall be well?" Pastor and Renovaré board member Mimi Dixon opens up the world of Julian of Norwich, a Medieval Christian with a surprisingly contemporary voice.
"I see it happening, this great new gathering of the people of God," writes Richard Foster in Streams of Living Water. Richard along with Renovaré Board member James Catford join this week to talk about the treasure in the diversity of the Church.
"Our massive souls deserve a really good story," says James Bryan (Jim) Smith in this conversation about his new book that uncovers a gospel of beauty, goodness and truth.
Two families embarked on a yearlong experiment to implement twelve small practices of radical faith, right where they were—in suburban Michigan. With humor and honesty guests Erin Wasinger and Sarah Arthur talk about the journey chronicled in their book, A Year of Small Things.
For over 50 years Dunklin Memorial Church has focused on hosting a residential alcohol and drug recovery program that brings men into healing through community, service, and hearing God's voice. Nick Reynolds is director at Dunklin.
"Contemplative prayer isn’t prayer in which we ask God to do things for us. It’s being with God and listening for God’s input whenever God may choose to speak." Jan Johnson returns to talk about hearing God, and quieting that noisy mental committee who tries to drown out his voice.
Renovaré's resident expert on kids is back again to talk with Nathan about how a child goes from innocence to character, who shapes a child's image of God, and three things every child needs (and every adult, too).
Renovaré's new Director of Communication and Special Projects, Brian Morykon, talks with Nathan about worship, living full-time in an RV, and learning to swim in the charismatic stream.
What is worship, why do we do it, and how can we enter more fully into worship on Sunday and everyday? Dallas Willard answers those questions with his characteristic wisdom and gentleness in this archive interview with John Ortberg at Menlo Park Church.
Having worked several years with churches in France and Switzerland, Linda Gist knows first-hand how lonely and isolating ministry can be. After graduating the Renovaré Institute she started Rhythms of Grace, a retreat ministry for pastors. She joins Nathan to talk about the importance for leaders to have a safe place to be vulnerable and find rest.
Nathan recently spoke at a conference in Australia hosted by Coast Community Church. The pastor of that church, Andrew Ranucci, joins Nathan again to talk about the positive effect retreats have on everyday life, the importance of giving God time and attention, and the "three divinas."
Joshua Banner is a spiritual director, a retreat leader, and creator and host of The Invitation Podcast. Nate talks with Josh about his contemplative prayer outreach in prisons.
In this episode Jon Bailey, co-founder of Lightstock.com and current Renovaré board chair, shares with Nathan some practical ways to pare down in order to free up the heart and mind for God.
Professor and author Robert Moore-Jumonville (MoJo) joins Nathan again, this time to talk about C.S. Lewis and prayer. They dive deep, covering topics like how to reconcile yielding to God (Thy will be done) with praying by faith (cast this mountain into the sea). Further up and further in!
Writer and spiritual director Judy Villanueva shares with Nathan Foster on how to listen for God in the smallest of things. Along the way, Nate learns "it is what it is" isn't so much a statement of defeat as a way of making peace with the reality God has and is for us.
Nathan talks with Bob Fryling, author and former publisher of InterVarsity Press, about how to find a truly authentic, integrated way to lead—from both our internal relationship with God and our external relationship with others.
For his 75th birthday Richard Foster asked the Renovaré community to consider giving $75 to someone in need or 75 minutes to someone lonely. In this episode Nate Foster shares with his dad stories of how you did it.
Nathan talks again with writer and Renovaré Ministry team member Richella Parham, this time about the incarnation, creativity, and discovering the divine dance of the Trinity.
Soon the Renovaré Book Club starts reading On the Incarnation by Saint Athanasius. The facilitator is Renovaré President Chris Hall who joins Nathan this week to talk about Athanasius, a "theological street fighter" who was exiled for standing for the full divinity of Jesus.
Robert Moore-Jumonville (affectionately known as MoJo) is professor of Christian Spirituality at Spring Arbor University, a Methodist pastor, and author of Jogging With G.K. Chesterton. He talks with Nathan about Chesterton's humor, humility and optimism.
At a recent Ordinary Saints Gathering Nathan sat down with his father Richard Foster to talk about spiritual disciplines. In this candid conversation we're reminded disciplines aren't the point but serve to bring body, mind and heart before God, who does in us more than we can ever do for ourselves.
Andrew Ranucci, pastor of Coast Community church in Australia, talks with Nathan Foster about his intentional use of retreats for the soul health of his church leaders and members.
Author and speaker Trevor Hudson joins Nathan again, this time to talk about a word that's become synonymous with legalism, self-righteousness and conformity: holiness. Trevor helps reclaim the word. It turns out that holiness means being fully alive and wonderfully unique in Christ.
Nathan talks with author and spiritual director Adele Calhoun about coloring as a spiritual discipline—she just released a grown-up coloring book called Coloring the Psalms—and how to engage God in icons and art.
In this episode Richard Foster shares his 75th birthday idea: What if you gave $75 to someone in need or 75 minutes to someone lonely? This fun experiment runs through April 25th. We'll collect your stories (call 1-844-RENEW88 to record yours) and share them in a future podcast.
Nathan talks with author and Anglican priest Tish Harrison Warren about her book Liturgy of the Ordinary. Tish helps us see not simply that ordinary life matters but how it matters and how we can be found by God in the ordinary.
Nathan Foster talks with Renovaré president Chris Hall about his recently passed friend, mentor and theologian Tom Oden. Chris also shares why ancient writings by the church fathers are more relevant than ever, and how C.S. Lewis defined an ignorant person.
Author, retreat leader, and spiritual director Jan Johnson joins Nathan again to talk about the importance of meditating on scripture, how it differs from eastern meditation, and even slowly walks us through a passage in Luke. Music during meditation is Song of Prayer, provided by Chad Lawson - chadlawson.com.
Cindy Wu, co-author of Our Global Families, lives in the most racially diverse county in America (in Houston). In this timely episode Cindy gently cuts through misconceptions about refugees and shares how caring for the stranger is easier and more rewarding than one might think.
Beth Allen Slevcove is a spiritual director, retreat leader, writer, surfer and mother in San Diego, California. Nathan talks with her about learning to grieve, the topic of her book Broken Hallelujahs.
Chris Smith is editor of The Englewood Review of Books, and a member of Englewood Christian Church, a church which helped spark Chris' book Slow Church. Nathan chats with him about living and reading slower and more intentionally.
Nathan talks with Charles Ayars, a spiritual director who works with the Renovaré Institute, about the life and poetry of St. John of the Cross.
Deirdre LaNoue's doctoral dissertation became the book The Spiritual Legacy Of Henri Nouwen. Nathan Foster talks with her about Henri's life, and his book Life of the Beloved which Deirdre facilitates in this year's Renovaré Book Club. (Join at renovare.org/bookclub).
Nathan Foster kicks off 2017 by interviewing long-time Renovaré supporter Mary Russell, 92, who shares her rhythms of reading Scripture and how she listens to God. Life With God Bible resources mentioned in podcast are available at renovare.org/bible.
For nearly each one of the last 25 years Carolyn Arends, Renovaré's Director of Education, has written a new Christmas song. In this episode, the last of the year, Nathan plays us three of those songs and talks with Carolyn to get the stories behind them.
Joe Davis is a minister, speaker, celebrant, Renovaré Institute grad, and part of the Renovaré UK leadership team. He talks with Nathan about his work and what it means to go through a "mid-faith crisis."
James Catford joins Nathan for part two discussing Bill Vaswig and healing prayer. This time they dive into more specifics about prayer and why heart posture matters more than a perfect process.
This week Renovaré releases interviews with the late Bill Vaswig, a Lutheran minister and long-time Renovaré ministry team member who focused on healing prayer. James Catford, a Renovaré board member and close friend of Bill, talks with Nathan to give us a glimpse into Bill's life and ministry.
"Spiritual formation is intensely relational." This week Chris Hall helps us understand how we become "ever more human as we become ever more like God." Taken from a recent Renovaré Making Ordinary Saints Gathering in Paoli, PA.
Steve Macchia, founder of Leadership Transformations, joins Nathan again, this time to discuss his book Crafting a Rule of Life: An Invitation to a Well-Ordered Way. Steve shares why a rule of life is about freedom not restriction, and how to write one of your own.
Steve Fawver, pastor of Spiritual Health & Care at Newberg Friends Church in Oregon, talks with Nathan about the value of retreats and reflects on a recent 30 day stay at a Trappist monastery.
Nathan asks Richard Foster and Chris Hall listener questions ranging from what kind of conversation makes God smile to what spiritual formation has to say about capitalism and who to vote for.
Author Brent Bill talks with Nathan about his new book Life Lessons from a Bad Quaker: A Humble Stumble Toward Simplicity and Grace.
This week we unearth a gem from the archives—Dallas Willard at Azusa Pacific University giving a potent teaching on prayer.
During a recent visit to a Bruderhof community, Nathan and his father Richard Foster sit down with Charles E. Moore, a contributing editor and author for Plough Publishing House. The conversation flows from what is essential to a "mere spirituality" to the importance of a child-like heart.
Nathan visits a Bruderhof community in New York and talks with two of its members about what it's like to live in a Christian community that shares all its possessions.
Author, retreat leader, and spiritual director Jan Johnson talks with Nathan about the importance of both studying and meditating on Scripture, and her new book Meeting God in Scripture.
Steve Macchia is founder of Leadership Transformations, an organization that focuses on spiritual formation for leaders. In this episode he talks with Nathan about his book Broken and Whole, and the freedom and beauty of being vulnerable.
Trevor Hudson is an author and speaker who teaches at the Renovaré Institute and internationally on spiritual formation. He joins Nathan to talk about life in South Africa, his new book Beyond Loneliness, and friendship with God. Trevor is facilitating his new book in this year's Renovaré Book Club which begins in October (more at renovare.org/bookclub).
Justine Olawsky is the voice you'll hear if you call Renovaré. In this episode Nathan helps us get to know her. Along the way we learn a bit about the Renovaré Institute, Latin, and G.K. Chesterton.
Nathan talks with Carolyn Arends, Renovaré Director of Education, about how books shape us, different modes of reading, and the upcoming Renovaré Book Club. Learn more at renovare.org/bookclub
What we think about God determines how we approach life with God. James Bryan Smith, author and professor at Friends University, talks with Nathan Foster about those God-narratives and about how to approach spiritual formation holistically.
In this very personal episode, Nathan Foster interviews his wife Christy about life with God in the midst of chronic pain. They also talk about Christy's songs and Istra Blue, the band they play in together.
Author, teacher and spiritual director Lacy Borgo returns to talk with Nathan about her Life With God children's curriculum, and how parents, pastors and teachers can make room for children to deepen friendship with God. Learn more at gooddirtministries.org
What happens when a seeker sensitive church embraces spiritual formation? In this episode Nathan talks with Kent Carlson and Mike Lueken, co-pastors who took their church through that transition and wrote a book about the process.
Donn Thomas is an African American songwriter, theologian, professor, worship leader and long-time Renovaré ministry team member. Nathan talks with him about the similarities between the Psalms and hip-hop culture, and how to lovingly discuss race-related topics.
What does it look like for a local church to intentionally participate in all the streams that Jesus flowed in? Nathan's search for such a church turned up Red Door Church in Bloomington, Indiana. Giff Reed, a pastor at Red Door, is this week's guest.
Nathan Foster talks again with author, playwright, professor and former pastor Paul Patton about the recurring story of brokenness and redemption found in film, and about how to "steward the stirrings of the soul" through memorization.
Nathan Foster chats with Spring Arbor professor and Tolkien expert Richard E. Cornell about Tolkien's work, his influence on C.S. Lewis, and his ability to make the good appear as interesting and winsome as it really is.
Listen in on this tender conversation where Nathan asks his dad Richard Foster for wisdom on how to respond to the recent tragedy in Orlando.
Lacy Borgo returns to talk with Nathan about what spiritual formation looks like for children, and how adults can learn from children to play with and listen to God.
Nathan Foster talks with Renovaré Korea director Brian Kang about his work with spiritual formation groups, differences and similarities in American and Korean Christian culture, and an upcoming conference.
Take a breath and join Nathan as he talks with Alan Fadling, President and Founder of Unhurried Living in Mission Viejo, CA, about living an unhurried life by following Jesus' rhythms of work and rest.
Nathan Foster talks with Steve Hewko, currently working towards a Ph.D. in interdisciplinary Islamic and Christian theology, about how Christians and Muslims think about God.
Renovaré board chair Jon Bailey switches seats with Nathan Foster and interviews Nathan about his new role as Director of Community Life at Renovaré.
In Toronto Nathan interviews Canadian singer/songwriter and worship leader Jon Bauer about worship being more than a song, the beauty of worshipping with those in closed countries, and how to be faithful in the small things.
Nathan Foster's latest Heart to Heart essay imagines local churches being places where "honest transformation into the image of Christ from the inside out is a living reality." In this episode, Nathan talks with his dad Richard Foster about what that might look like. Read the essay at renovare.org.
Roger Fredrikson, who recently turned 95, is the oldest member of the Renovaré Ministry Team. In this tender podcast with Nathan Foster he shares his wealth of wisdom learned over the years.
Carolyn Arends, Renovaré Director of Education, talks with Nathan Foster about the role of doubt. What do we do with it? Is it always the enemy of faith or can it be used to strengthen our faith?
Nathan Foster has a short impromptu discussion with his father Richard Foster about why various traditions of the Christian faith—the six streams—are important for giving us a more complete picture of life with God.
Educator and author Lacy Finn Borgo talks with Nathan Foster about helping children make room for God through the spiritual disciplines.
Author and Renovaré Ministry team member Richella Parham talks with Nathan Foster about overcoming the crippling effects of comparison.
Nathan Foster talks with author, playwright, professor and former pastor Paul Patton about the tragic loss of boredom, fear of missing out (FOMO), and the dance with pop culture.
Author, speaker and spiritual director Fil Anderson talks with Nathan Foster about how spiritual practices shape us, why God loves us, and how a over-sensitive sense of smell can been redeemed.
Trees can teach us a thing or two about life with God. That's the topic of Nathan Foster's bi-monthly Heart to Heart essay, out today. In this podcast Nathan dives deeper into the life of trees with biologist and Spring Arbor professor Aaron Wyman.
In this brief conversation, Nathan talks with his father Richard Foster about the Kingdom of God—what it is, how it differs from the church, and how to know what God wants.
In part 2 of their conversation, Mimi Dixon shares with Nathan wisdom about community and the narrowing way, drawing from her 30 years of pastoring the same church.
Pastor and Renovaré Board Member Mimi Dixon talks with Nathan about how God uses suffering to draw us closer to him. She explains the different between the "dark night of the hole" - one we dig ourselves into - and the "dark night of the soul".
Nathan talks with author, church musician, and instructor Val Hess about worship as spiritual formation and how we might re-shape our worship gatherings.
Nathan talks with singer/songwriter, web designer and Renovaré ministry team member Brian Morykon about Mexican tile work and the beauty of organic order.
Nathan Foster talks with author and Lutheran pastor Kai Nilsen about his new book, Renew Your Life.
Nathan Foster has a laid back chat with author, songwriter and Renovaré Director of Education Carolyn Arends.
Heart to Heart reboots as the Renovaré Podcast, now released every Monday. This week Nathan Foster chats with author and speaker Jan Johnson about Abundant Simplicity, people-pleasing, and why Inbox Zero isn't one of her life's goals. Related essay at: http://renovare.org/heart-to-heart
This month Nathan talks with author, speaker and spiritual director Fil Anderson about "withness", Jesus' interruptibility, and lessons from Brennan Manning's last moments. Read the related essay at http://renovare.org/heart-to-heart.
Nathan chats with Bible Society Chief Executive James Catford about the importance to being open honest with one another in community.
In the last decade spiritual formation communities have been popping up everywhere. One example is the Renovaré Institute. It's founder, Gary Moon, is the guest on this month's podcast. Read Nathan Foster's related essay at http://renovare.org/heart-to-heart/
Renovaré President Chris Hall shares with Nathan Foster some surprising perspectives on life in the age to come and how it touches our life now. Read the related essay at http://renovare.org/heart-to-heart/
Nathan Foster and his father Richard discuss the intentional but sometimes unspoken values that make an organization like Renovaré have longevity. Read the related essay at http://renovare.org/heart-to-heart/
Nathan Foster discusses his March 2015 letter about prayers of pain and lament. He is joined by songwriter and Renovare Ministry Team member Brian Morykon. Read the letter at http://renovare.org/heart-to-heart.
Nathan Foster talks about community and small groups with Gayle Withnell, a teacher and writer gifted in intercessory prayer. Related letter at http://renovare.org/heart-to-heart
Nathan Foster discusses his December 2014 Heart to Heart letter about resentments and what to do about them. He is joined by Margaret Campbell from the Renovaré board. Read the letter at http://renovare.org/heart-to-heart.
Henri Nouwen said, "I am deeply convinced that the Christian leader of the future is called to be completely irrelevant and to stand in this world with nothing to offer but his or her own vulnerable self." Nathan talks with pastor Mimi Dixon about the implications of that statement. Related essay at http://renovare.org/heart-to-heart.
Nathan Foster talks about what he learned while practicing the discipline of slowing down with God. He is joined by Juanita Rasmus, co-pastor of the St. John’s United Methodist Church in Downtown Houston, and Jonathan Bailey, co-founder of Lightstock and Renovaré Board Chair.
Nathan Foster is joined by author Richard J. Foster and missionary Marti Ensign. They share stories and talk about freedom and grace in the spiritual disciplines.